THE covers are nearly off the Micra! Our team of eagle-eyed spy photographers captured these revealing pictures of Nissan’s all-new supermini
during a promotional video shoot in Australia.
And despite the view being obscured by blue dust sheets and the scaffolding surrounding our snapper’s perch, the lack of camouflage means these shots are the best clue yet as to how the production model will look. Last October, we used official sketches and line drawings leaked during the Tokyo Motor Show to piece together an illustration of how the new Micra was likely to appear. And judging by these spy shots, we were correct down to the last detail.
From the frog-like headlamps and large lower grille to the brake light clusters and rear windscreen’s curved bottom edge, the Micra is shaping up as expected, with a host of familiar cues. Under the skin, though, things have taken a greater leap forward. Sitting on Nissan’s all-new V platform – V standing for versatile – the car promises to be 50kg lighter, more efficient and provide more cabin space than the model it replaces.
To maximise fuel economy, the company has developed a fresh three-cylinder engine and CVT automatic gearbox. A stop-start system will also feature. Working in conjunction with those weight savings, a sub-120g/km CO2 output is anticipated, as are fuel returns of around 60mpg. We expect the new Micra to make its first public appearance at the Paris Motor Show in early October. It will go on sale in the UK later the same month, most likely in five-door form.
Tell us about your car in our Driver Power survey.
For an alternative review of the latest Nissan Micra visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk
For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine. We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift!
It looks nice enough though it seems to have lost some of its cuteness. That C pillar is much thicker than the outgoing model so visibility might be a concern. With only the side and one headlamp visible it's a little difficult to forulate an accurate opinion. However, I have no doubt whatsoever that it will sell strongly just like its previous incarnations did.
From these pics it looks the the Picanto. The Micra was a cute looking car, yet after all the time for a replacement, we get this poor excuse of a facelift. Cheap does not always mean cheerful.
I cannot believe the above comments. I used to own the second generation bubble shaped Micra. The current one with the head lights halfway up the frong wings reminds me of a startled rabbit!!
No wonder Nissan had to re-design the lighs and put them back on the front of the car where lights should be.
This new Micra looks way cuter, and more modern than the odd ball we currently have on our roads. This is a step in the right direction , Nissan! Well done!!
I think it looks dull. Prefer the current model, with the Fiat 500 style bulges. This looks like cost cutting to me.
Ugh! Anything but cute!
My wife drives the current version and loves it!
Why because its cute - small and most of all Girlie!
But this looks like some of the worst offerings our oriental cousins put together for their home market!
Don't think it will be popular, better off buying an old Corsa!
Looks like its grown too! why is it manufacturers feel the need to make small cars bigger? They seem to forget the cars become popular because they are small!
What a wasted opportunity. The Micra has always been slightly different - this looks like a squashed down Almera with a smoothed out face.